Supermarket launches its foodbank initiative with in-store donations

A NEW initiative that will allow people to donate to a local food bank each time they shop has been launched in a Kidderminster supermarket.

The Midcounties Co-operative store, in Franche Road, has incorporated the new scheme to meet the growing demand for emergency food packages.

In-store bins have been introduced at the checkout, to encourage people to donate an item from their own shopping to the food bank.

Simon Hartland, store manager, said: “As a co-operative, our community is at the very heart of all that we do and the launch of our in-store donation point will help us to continue to give something back to people in Kidderminster.

“Both our colleagues and customers have really welcomed the introduction of the scheme, where their contributions will make a difference to the lives of people who really need it.”

The move follows statistics that show more than 900,000 people turned out to food banks in the past year.

The Kidderminster branch is just one of a number of the Co-op stores around the country to take part in the scheme.

The initiative has already supplied over £2,000 worth of food and the organisation has plans to increase the number of stores accepting donations in the future.

It is also working with food banks to create a list of the most wanted items, helping to encourage shoppers to donate essential items.

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Simon Prior, head of regional operations, said: “The Midcounties Co-operative is proud to announce this new programme, which helps to support food banks throughout our trading areas, including Kidderminster.

“Amid a backdrop which has seen more than 900,000 people seek help in the past year, we believe that this is a hugely important issue and it’s great to be working together to give something back to the communities in our trading areas.”

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